Right now, government leaders, scientists, industry representatives, and environmental and animal activists from across the globe are meeting in Egypt for the 27th Conference of the Parties (COP27) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change. Representatives from the World Federation for Animals (WFA), of which AAVS is a founding member, are there with the important message that the inclusion of animal welfare is critical in mitigating climate change and released its position paper, “Animal Welfare: A Must in the Climate Negotiations.”

Current climate change mitigation policies focus mainly on human impact, but the climate crisis affects all life, threatening the survival of many species. WFA’s position paper makes the case that ignoring animal welfare contributes to climate change, and further exacerbates the suffering of farmed animals. The paper states that “Animals are not only affected by climate change; they can also play a critical role in mitigating its impacts and increasing resilience if their welfare is taken into consideration.”

WFA urges the COP27 to recognize the role that society’s use of animals can play in the effort to combat climate change. It recommends a shift towards plant-based food production and consumption, as well as protecting wildlife and ecosystems to lessen carbon emissions. Addressing animal welfare in the climate negotiations is critical for mitigation and adaptation strategies to be effective and fair if we are to develop and maintain sustainable and resilient societies supported by healthy ecosystems.